That leaves Matt Cassel in the No. 2 role after Freeman missed last week's game with the concussion he suffered in his first Vikings start back in Week 7. Freeman has appeared in just one game since signing a one-year, $3 million contract with the Vikings last month. He was cleared medically this week, so he's a healthy scratch.

"Christian gives us the best chance to win," coach Leslie Frazier said Friday, but it's hard to find a team more lost at the quarterback position.

Ponder, Freeman and Cassel each have earned starts this season, but the Vikings are mired at 1-6 and don't have a passer to hitch their wagon to. Add Minnesota to the list of teams that will look to the draft for help under center.